Women Cruise Past SUU 76-56

Norma Collett | BYU Athletic Communications | Posted Nov 19, 2004

Danille Cheesman grabbed a game and team high 10 boards in the 76-56 win over SUU (Photo by Mark Philbrick/BYU Photo)

PROVO, Utah (Nov. 19, 2004) In the opening game of the season, BYU's women's basketball team defeated Southern Utah University 76-56, in front of an announced crowd of 1,935, Friday at the Marriott Center.

Getting out to an early 7-0 lead in a game which BYU never trailed, the Cougars shot 52% from the floor and never looked back, displaying a balanced and unselfish team-effort throughout the game.

"We played better as a team tonight," said senior guard Julie Sullivan. "Our chemistry this year on and off the court is better."

Leading the way for the Cougars offensively were two freshman, forward Mary Martha Abell and shooting guard Mallary Gillespie. Abell was the high scorer of the game with 14 points on an impressive 6-7 shooting. Gillespie nailed four three-pointers for a total of 12 points on the night. BYU shot 53% from beyond the arc, making 7-13 shots.

While praising the effort of his young players, head coach Jeff Judkins also noted the poise and control of the BYU seniors.

"The difference in the game was our experience. Our seniors played great."

Judkins used many different weapons against SUU as 12 different girls saw time on the floor. He also was quick to notice areas of improvement.

"We'll look at some game film and show the girls what we need to work on," said Judkins. "But, we looked really good tonight, I'm happy. We've just got to do a better job about not letting them get back in the game."

The closest the Thunderbirds came was two points with 7:39 left until halftime, trailing 15-13. BYU led SUU 37-25 going into the half. Sullivan led all players in the first half with seven points and four assists on 3-7 shooting. Kristen Pierce led SUU with six points on 2-4 shooting.

Janis Beal led SUU with 13 points on 5-14 shooting. Kristen Pierce also chipped in with 12 points on 4-7 shooting.

The Cougars return to action in the Marriott Center on Wed., Nov. 24, hosting Nevada-Reno in a 7 p.m. tip off.